WORLD RELIGIONS AND THE NEW AFRICAN UNION - A CRITICAL INTERROGATION...OR: A PROLEGOMENON TO AN ECONOMICS OF RELIGION

Abstract

In this essay I attempt to examine the place of the world religions (that is religion qua religion) in the context of the ongoing effort toward African Renaissance and Development. This kind of analysis becomes imperative in the light of the efforts of African Religions Leaders to be relevant to contemporary African visions for development, revival and survival in the global environment, as is witnessed in the recent visit of these leaders to the President of South Africa, Mr Thabo Mbeki, who is also the current Chairman of the new African Union (the proposed replacement for the Organization of Africa Unity) in October, 2002, asking to be consulted on matters of concern to Africa and to be involved in the development process. In the light of the above, numerous questions come to mind: (a) Given the history of the world religions (especially Christianity and Islam) in Africa and the world, can religion now be a partner for progress, development, unity and peace? (b) To what extent has the posturing of unity among diverse religions and their leadership been reflected in the declamations of the leaders in their different domains, especially in their canvassing for followership and supremacy in socio-political and economic domains for adherence and supremacy over the minds and pockets of their followers? Put differently, do these leaders now teach the sanctity of all religions and equality of all the paths to the Supreme Being? (c) Whose interest are the leaders canvassing on the international African forum? And, (d) In the face of secularism and democratic waves sweeping the world, can undemocratic institutions be instruments for democratic and egalitarian development?